Ep 4. Chapter 4: Freedom to Roam

Chapter 4: Freedom to Roam is the fourth episode of the second season of Our Planet. Hosted by David Attenborough, this episode explores the concept of migration and highlights the magnificent journeys taken by various animal species as they travel across the planet to find food, shelter and breeding partners.

The episode begins with a breathtaking view of the American Midwest where 600,000 sandhill cranes gather to rest and feed before flying further north. David Attenborough introduces the age-old concept of migration and explains how this instinctive behaviour has helped animals survive for millions of years.

The episode then takes the viewers on a journey across the world, showcasing different migration patterns of various animals. The first stop is the Arctic, where we witness the migration of the narwhal - a medium-sized toothed whale with a long horn-like tusk. As the ice melts in the summer, the narwhals make their way to the open sea where they can find their favourite prey - Arctic cod. The viewers learn about the challenges faced by the narwhals, including the hunting pressure from the Inuit people and the effects of climate change on their migration patterns.

The next destination is Africa, where we follow the migration of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti. David Attenborough explains how the migration behaviour of these herbivores helps the ecosystem flourish. We witness the spectacle of the great migration - a journey undertaken by almost 1.3 million wildebeests, 500,000 gazelles and 200,000 zebras.

The episode also highlights the migration of the monarch butterfly - a stunning orange and black butterfly that travels across North America to reach the forests of Central Mexico. We are introduced to the challenges faced by these butterflies, including habitat destruction and climate change.

The episode also highlights the importance of migratory bird species, such as the Arctic Tern and the Blackpoll Warbler, which undertake some of the longest and perilous migrations in the animal kingdom.

The final segment of the episode focuses on the challenges faced by these mobile species in the modern age, including habitat destruction, hunting, and climate change. David Attenborough explains how these issues have altered migration patterns and poses a threat to migratory animals' survival. The episode ends with a reminder of the beauty of these animal movements and the importance of protecting their freedom to roam.

Chapter 4: Freedom to Roam is another excellent episode of Our Planet, revealing the wonders of wildlife migration while shedding light on its importance in nature's cycle. The mesmerizing footage is paired with insightful commentary highlighting the challenges these animals face in today's world, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.